Sexual dysfunction is a common problem that is embarrassing for some people. Research has suggested that up to 43% of women and 31% of men experience some degree of difficulty during intercourse. Even though many people are reluctant to seek help, most cases are treatable.

Sexual Dysfunction Causes

Female sexual dysfunction causes fall into two categories: physical and psychological. The latter can have many sources including stress or anxiety related to work, relationship problems, depression, guilt, past trauma, or concern about sexual performance.

Physical causes are also varied. Health conditions that affect non-reproductive parts of the body can still impact sexual function. The most common physical causes include heart disease, diabetes, menopause, kidney disease, hormonal imbalances, neurological diseases, alcoholism, drug abuse, and liver failure. Some medications can also have a negative impact on sexual desire and performance.

Symptoms of Female Sexual Dysfunction

Several symptoms may indicate female sexual dysfunction. They include:

• A lack of desire to have sex
• Difficulty becoming aroused
• Difficulty achieving orgasm
• Painful intercourse (dyspareunia)

Treating Female Sexual Dysfunction

Sometimes, communicating with your partner can help overcome minor female sexual dysfunction. Providing feedback in a non-confrontational way can increase intimacy and help partners learn about each other’s preferences. In other cases, the problem may require medical treatment that could include:

• Estrogen Therapy – A vaginal ring, tablet, or cream may be prescribed to improve vaginal elasticity and tone which will enhance blood flow and lubrication.
• Androgen Therapy – Women also require testosterone for healthy sexual function. Androgen therapy involves testosterone replacement in women with an androgen deficiency.
• Other Medications – The selective estrogen receptor modulator Osphena (ospemifene) or Addyi (flibanserin) may be prescribed.

A gynecologist can help you determine the cause of female sexual dysfunction. Call your Women’s Health OBGYN today to schedule an appointment. This is a real problem, let us help.

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A couple of decades ago, many women would turn to hormones to treat the common symptoms of menopause. It seemed so simple until a 2002 study conducted by the Women’s Health Initiative (WHI) revealed something concerning.

The study focused on the long-term effects of estrogen therapy and came back with some troubling results. They found that the initial results indicated that there was an increase in the risk of heart disease, breast cancer, stroke, and blood clotting in the lungs. Many women panicked and immediately stopped therapy. What we know now is that there are benefits to this type of menopause treatment and that the WHI’s data may not have been as dangerous as it seemed at the time.

Benefits of Estrogen Therapy

• Healthy women with no significant risk of blood clots can use estrogen therapy with minimal risk
• Treats symptoms with no significant impact on energy, mental health, sex drive, or lifestyle
• Can be taken in different forms to directly address specific menopause symptoms
• Prevents osteoporosis in women who are at high risk for the disease

Drawbacks of Estrogen Therapy

• Women who smoke may be at a higher risk for blood clots when using estrogen therapy
• May not be a safe option for women with heart disease
• A slight increase in the risk of uterine or breast cancer in women who have not had a hysterectomy

Should You Use Estrogen Therapy?

Estrogen therapy is not a one-size-fits-all solution for menopause symptoms. It can have significant benefits, but in some cases, it could also raise the risk of certain conditions. The best way to determine if you should use estrogen therapy is by discussing it with your gynecologist. Only they can provide sound advice based on your health status, history, and individual needs. Make an appointment with your Women’s Health and Menopause Center doctor today.

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